Edmonton Region

The Edmonton Region is home to North America’s largest stretch of urban parkland, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and paddling on the North Saskatchewan River. Edmonton is also known for its vibrant festivals year-round, family-friendly attractions and close proximity to Elk Island National Park. You’ll find a surprising mix of city experiences and nature-based adventures.

Edmonton is Northern Explorers’ home base, and we have the inside scoop on its local adventures. From exploring the urban wilderness to quick trips outside of the city, this guide will help you pack your days in town with the best our city has to offer.

Explore Edmonton’s Parks and Attractions

Edmonton is known for its festivals, attractions, and that huge mall, but it’s also one of Alberta’s best cities for outdoor adventure. The North Saskatchewan River winds through the heart of the city, creating a vast network of trails, parks, and green spaces to explore. Whatever reason you’re visiting, Edmonton offers plenty of ways to get outside, discover something new, and make lasting memories.

Paddle the North Saskatchewan River: Rated an easy Class 1 river, the North Saskatchewan snakes through the city and has several launch points. Canoe, kayak, paddle or float through this urban wilderness.

Hike or Bike in the River Valley: As North America’s largest urban parkland, Edmonton has over 160 kilometres of multi-use trails and 15 kilometres of single-track dirt trails. Along the river valley or up a ravine, you can pick a section and start exploring!

Family Experiences at Edmonton’s Attractions: If it’s a rainy day or you’re looking for a new experience, Edmonton has so many world-class attractions. These include the Telus World of Science, Fort Edmonton Park, the Edmonton Zoo, the Royal Alberta Museum, and, of course, the world-famous West Edmonton Mall.

Plan Your Trip

Outdoor Experiences In and Around Edmonton

Beyond the city limits, a wide range of outdoor adventures awaits. From paddling calm lakes and wildlife viewing to hiking forested trails and camping under the stars, the Edmonton Region offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Featured Experience: Discover Elk Island National Park

Bison and wildlife viewing
Hiking and paddling
Camping in the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve
Interactive programming and guided hikes

Nearby Paddling Destinations:

North or Edmonton: Sturgeon River, Big Lake, Long Island Lake
East of Edmonton: Astotin Lake, Hastings Lake, Islet Lake
South of Edmonton: Twin Lakes, Black Nugget Lake, Pigeon Lake
West of Edmonton: Wabamun Lake, Mayatan Lake, Muir Lake

Nearby Recreation and Natural Areas:

Blackfoot/Cooking Lake Provincial Recreation Area
Strathcona Wilderness Centre
Chickacoo Lake Recreation Area
Sherwood Park Natural Area

Top Outdoor Experiences in the Edmonton Region

You don’t have to leave the Edmonton Region to find memorable outdoor adventures. Here, the sprawling river valley, wildlife-rich parklands, quiet lakes, and family-friendly trails create endless opportunities to explore. These outdoor experiences highlight some of the best adventures waiting for you in the Capital Region.